Forgiveness.
A lot of people think they know what this is. But the truth of the matter is,
forgiveness can be twisted into a very selfish thing. It has long been argued
that forgiveness is a choice we all make in our lives to help ‘us’ move on. But
are we truly forgiving the other person? Or are we saying that we forgive the
other person so that we feel complacent.
 |
| Photography By: Jessica Shaffer |
True
forgiveness is a process. It’s not just a phrase that we coin to someone when they
have done us wrong. “I forgive you,” is a very complex statement – and in doing
so we need to understand the significance it can have in our lives. Jesus
Christ’s crucifixion on the cross is the epitome of forgiveness. Ephesians 1:7 says, “In him we have redemption
through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of
God's grace.” The meticulous process that Jesus Christ planned to show us and
prove we are truly forgiven began with a virgin birth, a dedication in life,
and a spotless sacrifice on the cross. His actions screamed love, and his
motives were clear – “I am come that they might have life, and
that they might have it more abundantly.” John
10:10
Forgiveness
is also not a choice. Whether the conviction be there or not, Christ said, Matthew 6:14-15 “For if you forgive
men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive
you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not
forgive your sins.” This quote is a revelation. Tried and true in the
statement, do unto other’s as you would want done unto you. Forgiveness is a
requirement. Though the heart may take time to heal, we have to choose to lay
our burdens at the feet of Jesus.
 |
| Photography By: Jessica Shaffer |
Letting someone who hurt you take
hold of your life is like leaving an open wound to fester. We have to make the
conscious decision to truly be Christ-like and decide and live like we have
moved on from the indiscretion. First pray about the situation that has hurt
your or caused a quarrel. Secondly, fast – do as Christ did in letting his
flesh die. Let the Holy Spirit touch your lips to express the words that should
come out of your mouth when the situation needs to be resolved. Thirdly, love and
move on. Once these steps have progressed, let go.
Nothing about the process of
forgiveness is easy, but they are essential in showing the world that we can be
the light. Let us be an example of Christ’s love – a true Heart of Forgiveness.
Micah 7:18-19
Who is a God like
you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his
inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show
mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins
underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.
